Biography

Michael is currently attending Naropa University for his MA in Contemplative Psychotherapy and Buddhist Psychology. He is a Professional Level 500-hour Kripalu Yoga Teacher and the former Director of Yoga Teacher Training for Mind the Mat Studio. He has created retreats, teacher training programs, workshops and classes for students. He also works with clients one-on-one. Michael received his initial 200-hour teaching certification from Yoga to the People in NYC and is a Registered Yoga Teacher with Yoga Alliance. He has been certified in Thai bodywork with the Thai Institute of Healing Arts. He holds a Bachelor’s of Fine Arts in Acting from Boston University and has studied dance, the Alexander Technique, and Reiki energy-work. He draws on the range of modalities to broaden and deepen the yoga experience for his students.

~~~

​I first experienced meditation without knowing it as a kid playing the drums. Occasionally I would land in “the pocket”, as musicians call it, and be completely absorbed in the moment. Years later, while living in New York City, I was dragged into my first yoga class against my will. Within that class my perspective shifted, though, and by the end I realized he had found a new home. It was the first time I had experienced quiet in the midst of the hectic, whirling, New York City environment. I’ve come to realize that sense of calm I experienced is actually our natural state and the practices of yoga can and do take us back home to ourselves.​